Merry mutts and fun-filled felines will be making the most of national Pet Smile Month during March.
More than 1000 veterinary practices are donating their professional time to give free dental checks to pets.
Participating vets will use the information they collect for a survey into the oral health of more than 10,000 pets as well as giving advice on oral hygiene.
Dental check - Medivet's student vet nurse Gayle Nykerk checks Dudley's gnashers Picture: ELISE GOW 7WDJ71
William Fowlds, of Medivet in Eastwoodbury Lane, Westcliff said: "Many pet owners aren't aware of the importance of tooth brushing and other oral hygiene measures.
"The last Pet Smile Survey showed that 80 per cent of cats and 65 per cent of dogs over three years of age needed immediate dental treatment.
"The build up of plaque could mean the development of an infection and spread of bacteria through the bloodstream to damage the kidneys and heart valves as well as creating abscesses elsewhere in the body."
Pet owners who would like to get their animals checked at Medivet should call 01702 526666.
To check other participating veterinary practices call 08714 242526.
Published Wednesday, March 6, 2002
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